75 essential things to do before graduation: Your ultimate high school bucket list

Graduation is a monumental milestone, but before you toss your cap in the air, there’s so much to experience, learn, and accomplish. Whether you’re looking to make memories, prepare for life after high school, or just enjoy your final days as a student, this list of 75 must-dos will ensure your senior year is unforgettable.

Make unforgettable memories

1. Take a photo at your school’s iconic spot.

2. Attend a school sports game, pep rally, or play you’ve never been to before.

3. Host or attend a themed party with friends.

4. Plan a day trip with your closest friends to explore your hometown or nearby attractions.

5. Pull an all-nighter — but make it fun! Watch movies, reminisce, or play games.

6. Participate in a school tradition, like a senior prank or spirit week.

7. Write a letter to your future self to open after graduation.

8. Take a nostalgic walk around school and reflect on your journey.

9. Throw a dinner party with your high school crew. Cook or order in, but make it memorable.

10. Explore a part of your town you’ve never seen before.

Be a financially smart family!

Be a financially smart family!

From saving for the future to understanding credit, see how families are thriving with Greenlight.

Try Greenlight today

Prepare for life after high school

1. Revamp your resume and create a strong LinkedIn profile if you’re heading to college or work.

2. Practice a mock interview with a teacher, counselor, or family member.

3. Apply for scholarships, jobs, or college programs.

4. Learn how to budget and manage personal finances. 

5. Practice meal prepping and cooking simple, healthy meals.

6. Write thank-you notes to teachers and mentors who helped you along the way.

7. Learn the basics of filing taxes.

8. Attend a financial literacy or budgeting workshop.

9. Open a savings account or start building an emergency fund.

10. Network at school events or with alumni.

Academic and personal growth

1. Finish your senior project or portfolio.

2. Take an elective or extracurricular you’ve always wanted to try.

3. Read a book that’s unrelated to schoolwork.

4. Join or lead a club you’ve always been interested in.

5. Master a skill like public speaking, coding, or graphic design.

6. Create a vision board for your post-graduation goals.

7. Start journaling to capture your senior year experiences.

8. Take advantage of free or discounted resources offered by your school.

9. Plan your ideal career or college path and list actionable steps to get there.

10. Get a professional headshot taken for college applications or work profiles.

Explore and adventure

1. Go on a road trip with friends.

2. Hike a nearby trail or visit a local park.

3. Attend a concert or community event.

4. Take a spontaneous weekend trip.

5. Visit every coffee shop or restaurant in your area.

6. Explore your town or city as if you were a tourist.

7. Try something adventurous like ziplining or paddleboarding.

8. Visit the museums or historical sites near you.

9. Attend an art show or cultural festival.

10. Plan a sunrise or sunset picnic.

Give back and leave a legacy

1. Volunteer with a local nonprofit or school organization.

2. Donate your unused items to fellow students or local charities.

3. Plant a tree or participate in a community sustainability project.

4. Mentor younger students or incoming freshmen.

5. Leave behind a time capsule for future students.

6. Write a blog or social media post reflecting on your high school experience.

7. Organize a fundraiser for a cause you’re passionate about.

8. Create a playlist of songs that defined your high school years.

9. Contribute to the yearbook or school newspaper.

10. Nominate a deserving teacher for an award or recognition.

Celebrate your achievements

1. Throw a graduation party with your family and friends.

2. Celebrate your academic milestones — get a frame for your diploma.

3. Take senior portraits or graduation photos with friends.

4. Reflect on your achievements and write them down.

5. Host a gratitude dinner to thank those who supported you.

6. Create a scrapbook of your high school memories.

7. Share your story or advice with younger students.

8. Attend your school’s prom, formal, or senior gala.

9. Order custom graduation announcements to send to loved ones.

10. Plan a day of relaxation before the big day — treat yourself to a spa day or mental health break.

Just for fun

1. Take a dance class or try a new fitness trend.

2. Visit the library and check out a random book or movie.

3. Learn how to play a new card or board game.

4. Go to a karaoke night or open mic.

5. Watch every movie in a series like Harry Potter, Star Wars, or Marvel.

6. Take part in a school talent show.

7. Try food from every cafeteria option at school.

8. Explore late-night hangout spots with friends.

9. Have a photo shoot in your favorite town or school spots.

10. Create a TikTok or Instagram reel documenting your senior year.

Final checklist

1. Confirm your graduation requirements with your counselor.

2. Pay off any library or parking fines.

3. Return any borrowed items — textbooks, sports equipment, or a friend’s sweater.

4. Visit your school’s alumni office to learn about staying connected.

5. Take a deep breath and enjoy every moment — you’ve earned it!

Embrace the journey

As you check off items on this bucket list, remember that your senior year isn’t just about completing tasks — it’s about creating memories, embracing growth, and preparing for the exciting journey ahead. Take time to reflect on how far you’ve come, celebrate your achievements, and set intentions for the future. The friendships, lessons, and experiences you gain now will shape the next chapter of your life.

Your app. Your money. Manage money, save up, and stay safe with our all-in-one app. Show your parents how Greenlight can help. Try Greenlight, one month, risk-free.†

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.

† Valid for new customers only. Subject to identity verification and minimum load requirements. Your first monthly fee will be billed to your parent wallet seven days after successful registration. To receive a refund of your first monthly fee, you must request to close your account on or before the day immediately preceding your first Monthly Billing Date. See the ‘Account’ tab of Settings by tapping the gear icon on the Greenlight app home page to confirm when your risk-free trial ends. See Terms for details.